Avery K. Tingle, The Gamer Author

A new Horizon Forbidden West gameplay trailer dropped  from Playstation Studios YouTube Channel today. This is PS5 demo; the game will be available on both PS4 (which is great, because some of us haven’t upgraded yet) and PS5, with noticeable graphic upgrades on the latter. Guerilla Games’ flagship title has made some incredible improvements over its impressive prequel, so here’s what’s new.

Clawstriders Cannot Be Taken Head-On

At least not in the beginning of the game, not even with Aloy’s new abilites. These Cassowary/Veloceraptor hell spawn hybrids are offensive juggernauts with the ability to leap/stomp, whip Aloy with a vicious tail attack, stun her with a sonic shriek, and those claws aren’t for show. Aloy will more than likely upgrade throughout the game to  take these monsters on, but in the beginning, expect to run for your life.

The Underwater Sequences Are Absolutely Gorgeous

The PS5 was shown off but don’t expect the PS4 to slouch in the graphics department. It’s not clear if Aloy is equipped with a rebreather or if she can hold her breath for a really long time (the latter is plausible, she’s in great shape), but it appears that at least a portion of Forbidden West will take place beneath the  water. This is the last place you’d want to engage a snapjaw.

Human Combat Looks Fun Now

One of the few complaints about Horizon Zero Down was its lackluster combat against humanity. After taking down Thunderjaws, humans were about as durable as Kraft Singles. Stealth elements remained but humans are now equipped with armor like machines. They also control some of the more formidable machines, meaning we’ll have to plot our way through camps now.

Finish Him!

“You think you can hurt me?!” The leader (who is this guy?!) charges, ready to tackle Aloy back to the ground, but she’s ready for him. His armor can withstand her arrows, but she’s packing a lot more than that. She loads a power pack into her spear and does her best Thor impression, hurling the weapon into the leader’s spleen. He feels that, stunned and dizzed. “Yeah,” Aloy growls, “I do!”
Aloy is gonna be a lot more fun to play. Amongst her new arsenal are throwable spears that can stun even the largest beasts. She can also rappel across gaps, as well as up and down walls.

Horizon Forbidden West does not look to disappoint on either console. Expect it for both PS4 and PS5 later this year.

Avery K. Tingle is a scifi/fantasy author currently residing in the Pacific Northwest. Owned by two cats, he is passionate about social justice, Star Wars, and mental health. Connect to his award-winning writing and social media here.